Tamil Nadu Election 2026: TASMAC Dry Days Begin From April 21; Check Full list of Liquor Ban days

Carrying out the standard election protocols, the Tamil Nadu government has announced that it is going to enforce liquor restrictions ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly Election 2026.

The Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation better known as TASMAC, which controls liquor sales across Tamil Nadu, has been asked to shut all retail outlets on TASMAC dry days that is beginning from April 21 and continuing till April 23, in view of polling.

Residents of Tamil Nadu should note that all TASMAC shops will stay closed during the specified dates. Stocking or sale of liquor during this period will be strictly prohibited, and any violations may invite strict legal action.

TASMAC operates under the state government and holds a monopoly over wholesale and retail liquor sales. It is also a key revenue contributor through excise duties.

The enforcement of dry days is mandated by the Election Commission of India to prevent alcohol-related disturbances during elections. ECI believes enforcing a dry day will help voters cast their ballots freely without any influence.

Another dry day will be observed on May 4, 2026, the day of vote counting, as per election guidelines.

Tamil Nadu Election 2026 Dates

The election schedule for Tamil Nadu has been announced by ECI in the national election calendars. The Polling date for Tamil Nadu election is April 23rd while the Counting date is May 4. The Election process completion will be done by May 6. Tamil Nadu has a total of 234 Assembly constituencies, and voting will take place in a single phase.

The Tamil Nadu Election 2026 is expected to see a high-stakes contest primarily between the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)-led alliance and the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK)-led opposition. Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and other regional players are also looking to expand their presence in the state.